Police ready to help Victorians welcome new year safely

Victoria Police will maintain a strong, highly visible presence across Victoria this New Year’s Eve as revellers welcome 2022.

Thousands of police including general duties members and specialist units will patrol Melbourne’s CBD, regional centres and key holiday destinations as part of an extensive effort to ensure an enjoyable and safe night for everyone.

Foreshore locations will also be a focus with hot weather predicted.

Police will take swift action against anyone intent on causing trouble.

Melbourne’s CBD, St Kilda foreshore, the Mornington Peninsula, Surf Coast and Phillip Island have all been declared designated areas under the Control of Weapons Act, giving police additional search powers.

The highly trained Critical Incident Response Team will also patrol the CBD, inner city and places of mass gatherings ready to respond to any incidents that may arise.

Protective services officers (PSOs) will be out across the public transport network making sure revellers get to and from celebrations safely. Their presence will extend to regional areas including Geelong, Ballarat, Frankston, Bendigo and Traralgon.

On the roads police will be paying particular attention to drug and drink driving, with alcohol and drug testing vehicles to be set up in key locations both on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

The Air Wing, Dog Squad, Public Order Response Team, Mounted Branch and Water Police will be on hand to support frontline police if needed.

Motorists are advised there will be road closures in Melbourne’s CBD, Southbank and Docklands to support four celebration zones being set up in the city. Closures will also be in place in suburban and regional areas hosting public celebrations.

Illegal fireworks are a continued concern on New Year’s Eve, with police warning such activity poses a real risk of serious injury and fire. Anyone caught using illegal fireworks can face up to 15 years’ jail and substantial fines.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Commissioner Rick Nugent:

“Victorians have shown how resilient they are this year, and we look forward to safely bringing in the new year with the community in our cities, towns and popular holiday destinations.

“There will be a strong and dedicated police presence right across the state to ensure celebrations are kept safe and people who make it unsafe, or harm others are held to account”.

“Everyone needs to be aware of their own personal responsibility to look after themselves and others this New Year’s Eve. We know excessive drinking and use of illicit drugs can lead to devastating consequences including violent crime, serious assault, anti-social behaviour and road trauma.”

“If you are planning to come into the city or celebrations anywhere in the state to cause trouble – don’t. You will be arrested and held to account.”

“Make sure you plan ahead and work out how you are going to get to and from your destination – it would be devastating to think that someone might not live to enjoy 2022 because of a bad decision made on New Year’s Eve.”